The Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ is an exquisite and rare tropical plant native to South East Asia. It brings rare, tropical beauty to your home with its emerald green leaves that are highlighted with silver webs of veins, streaking like lightening, and lined with vivid yellow edges. Its contrast in colour and texture makes it stand out from other houseplants and ensures a captivating addition to your home. Natural HabitatThis evergreen fleshy leafed plant grows in moist, shady, tropical forests, beside streams and rivers. The gentles flows of the water bring essential nutrients and moisture, while the leafy canopy created by the overhanging trees provide dappled light to the forest floor.
Tips for nurturing your Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’
Light
Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ can be placed in a well lit room with plenty of daylight, out of direct sunlight, or in dappled shade near an east facing window.
Temperature
The Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ thrives in temperatures from 20-27°C (68 – 80.6°F). It can tolerate some temperature variation during the year, but will not withstand a frost.
Soil Type and Drainage
For optimal growth, it should be planted in a potting soil mix of 1 part loam and 1 part peat moss or coir, which acts to improve drainage.
Humidity
The Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ relishes humid conditions, so you can mist it every couple of days or place a humidifier nearby. You can also set the pot on a pebble tray of water to increase humidity around it.
Watering
Water when the top inch or so of the soil becomes dry, with a 350 ml of water per cm diameter of the pot. Be careful not to overwater, as the roots may rot.
Toxicity
Be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic and should not be touched or eaten.FertilizerFertilize monthly in the summer and every two months in the winter with a well-balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength.
Troubleshooting Pests, Diseases and Common Problems
Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ is generally pest-free, but watch out for leaf miners, aphids, and scale. Yellowing and wilting of leaves can also occur due to overwatering or underwatering. Be sure to provide consistent care and water only when necessary.
Propagation
It can be propagated by division, with each division having a few leaves and their own root system. Divide the offsets in spring, allowing each division to root in a pot with plenty of potting soil.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an exotic and beautiful tropical plant to bring life to your home, the Alocasia ‘Regal Shields’ might be the one for you. Its captivating leaves and colours, and its ability to thrive in lower light conditions make it a great addition to living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. With the right care, this plant will bring dramatic beauty to your home for many years.
